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2008, A Year In Review

By Lou Koza

Welcome to this installment of A Year in Review. This year-end feature is meant to mark the occasion and offer our thanks to certain individuals who've contributed to TAC this year. Every so often the subject of Tony's "Super Burger" comes up during friendly message board discussions. Because of its name, we can only imagine it has a taste like no other hamburger. I wonder if Tony's coffee is of the same highest quality. I begin this write-up in the late hours of the night and if I'm to get through this I need my own special brew to keep me awake and going. By the time you begin read this, I suggest you too get yourself a cup of java, sit back and enjoy this read. Hopefully by the time you get close to finishing this entry you won't need to be reaching for a second cup to stay awake. I can't guarantee that won't happen, but I'll do my best to keep your interest. Professor Twiddle once stated "here we go" before engaging his time machine to transport himself, Clark, Lois, Perry, Jimmy and a crook named Turk back in time to the stone age, I say the same. "Here we go," and not in any particular date order and thankfully only for a year.


APRIL FOOL'S DAY

On April 1st, TAC raised the eyebrows of many readers (including one Mr.J. Nolt) when a Photo of the Month revealed a poster depicting the June 1959 upcoming two-round exhibition fight between George Reeves and Light-Heavy Weight Champion and boxing legend Archie Moore. "The "Ol Mongoose Vs. Superman." So what does one do when plummeted with an abundance of e-mails from folks wondering where did this amazing poster come from? I took the stand of a very familar expression, "No comment until the time limit is up," and only twenty-four hours would be good enough to remain silent. Indeed it was a dirty trick to say the least on my part. But isn't that what April 1st of each year is all about? The subject of this fight had taken on mythical proportions for many years. To some degree it seemed plausible George could enter into an exhibition fight with Archie Moore.

On the other hand, it seemed implausible knowing George's physical condition, most notable to his right hand, which had been injured on April 8, 1959 in a car accident. We've wondered if the hand had healed by mid-June or was it still recuperating from the condition? To date no one has ever uncovered any newspaper announcement of George and Archie going two rounds. It had only been noted in the newspapers articles covering George's death. A French magazine I own dating back to June 1959 includes an article on George's death. It mentions the exhibition fight with Archie was George's attempt to prove to the studio executives he still had audience appeal.

It was not uncommon for Archie Moore to hold exhibition bouts with celebrities. In the photo to the right, George Plimpton and Archie are shown after their fight came to a closing. You can see from the photo Plimpton is enjoying the occassion, while sporting a bloody nose. It must be Plimpton who was overjoyed he got through the fight in one piece. Interesting to note is in the April 1, 1985 issue of Sports Illustrated, the eccentric George Plimpton created a nation wide hysteria with an April Fool's Day joke of his own.

Mr. Plimpton would write of a phenom pitcher by the name of Sid Finch. Plimpton discribed this new found hurler being able to throw a baseball at an incredible speed,...while wearing one heavy-duty untied construction boot on one foot, and barefoot with the other. The fool is the one who falls hook, line and sinker for the joke. In the case of Sid Finch, I happily admit to being cast the fool. So by the time twenty-four hours passed after releasing my phony bulletin, many had finally come to realize the occassion and started putting two and two together. It was friends of Jim Beaver, boxing aficionados who are to be credited for spotting the fake poster. With certain tell-tale signs they immediately became suspect. Still, I can safely say to several of my buddies out there, "I got'cha!!" After the ring-side dust cleared, Carl Glass contacted Gene LeBell who put an end to the mystery surrounding whether or not this exhibition bout was ever going to take place. Gene's answer was simple. "I'd never heard of it." These five words speak volumes. Gene's background comes from a San Diego based family business which promoted wrestling and boxing. Contemporary newspapers of the time reporting on George's death stated San Diego was the town the event was to be held. Gene was best friends with George Reeves in 1959 and so therefore it stands to reason he is best qualified to once and for all shed light on the subject. What remains a mystery is how the information ever got into the newspapers to begin with. The only explanation is Bob Condon a boxing sport magazine writer who was meeting with Archie Moore to ghost write his biography, and also do a feature magazine article on George's boxing days with the Pasadena Golden Gloves. Mr. Condon was a guest in George's home at the time of the tragic incident


Creators

This year we had a good number of images to post for the Photo of the Month. Fifteen in all. With June-08 we recognized Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster. June marked the 70th anniversary of SUPERMAN published in Action Comics no. 1. Perhaps I missed the boat, but it seems to me very little, if any recognition was generated by Warner Brothers / DC Comics. There was no media blitz in any form, fit or fashion that I'm aware of. If I recall, the last viable celebration took place back in 1989 when the character turned 50. At this time, Superman received a face lift thanks to the dynamic words and picture style of John Byrne, TIME magazine did an extensive cover feature article, CBS and Lorne Michaels produced an hour-long tribute and Jack and Noel, along with Mark Hamill of Luke Skywalker - Star Wars fame joined a celebration in NYC. I have to wonder what happened to 2008, when Superman turned 70? Come to think of it, the 60th went by without any fanfare as well. I hope the momentum is being saved for the 75th anniversary in 2014? Mr. Siegel and Mr. Schuster need to be in the forefront of that celebration. Time will tell. TAC's main focus is George Reeves, and rarely does TAC make mention of other screen versions of Superman. However, I'm going to make an allowance and that is I hope by 2014, Warner Brothers will be on its third installment of the Superman Returns franchise. My vote is the prime cast of Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, Frank Langella and Sam Huntington remain throughout, as well as the first rate production values and color tones. And of course, a great story goes without saying.


Gypsy

When it comes to our royal cast members, some very interesting events took place this year. May 2008 marked the very first time Phyllis "Gypsy" Coates made a New York City personal appearance. Gypsy appeared at the NYC Collectors Show on May 24-25. Her appearances were rare, and mostly on the West Coast. Gypsy was escorted by San Francisco resident Bruce Dettman, who of course is well known for his wonderful writings at TAC. Phyllis took NY by storm, which was proven by an impressive line filled with fans longing to meet her for the first time. Ms. Coates was warm, candidly outspoken in her usual trademark manner and generous with her time by enduring the request for countless autographs. This lasted far beyond what her writing hand could bear. But Gypsy toughed it out very much like her Lois Lane of 1951 and no fan left unsatisfied. The line was continuous and I'm certain if the appearance hadn't conflicted with the Memorial Day Weekend, where other family and friend obligations took priority, the attendance would have been even greater. Other guest included TV show kiddie-host icon Soupy Sales, Larry Storch and James Hampton both of F-Troop fame. Of great interest was an individual sitting next to our guest of honor. This was in the form of the lovely and gracious Beverly Washburn. Beverly has become a big favorite among TV Superman fans for her charming and easy-going approachable manner.

Louie "The Looper" meets Phyllis "Gypsy" Coates

(Image Courtesy of Steve Friedman)

Both Beverly and Gypsy appeared in the classic Superman and the Mole Men, a.k.a. The Unknown People.It was great to see the fan support come from Steve Friedman, Richard Potter, Sue Schnitzer, Bill Dillane, Gail McIntyre, Philip Pita and Andy Klyde who were on deck to enjoy the event. Once back in SF, Bruce was diligent at work writing about his travels with 1951's Lois Lane. Lois in Manhattan is the result and it's an enjoyable read. In addition, I dug into my personal archives and came up with the extremely rare TV People, December 1953 magazine article titled Superman's Girl Friday. When I showed it to Phyllis she marveled at it. Phyllis' appearance can be marked in history and we hope it won't be her last visit to the Tri-State area.


Fun Time

On a greater scale of personal appearances is the forever young and energetic Noel Neill. How she does it is anyone's guess. Maybe she's really Supergirl in disguise. In 2008, Noel appeared at more than a dozen shows across the country. Headlining most venues, Noel continues barnstorming her way across the country to the delight of thousands upon thousands of appreciating fans. When it comes to personal appearances, Noel is definitely no school girl. Her Superman - Lois Lane tour experience dates back to 1954. Noel's most notable appearance with George was at the Colorado State Fair in 1957, along with George's lifelong friend Natividad Vacio and Mr. Kryptonite himself, Gene LeBell. This cross-country tour has been detailed in the book, Truth, Justice and the American Way, The Life and Times of Noel Neill, the Original Lois Lane written by Larry Ward. Noel has earned this distinction by being the first actress to bring Lois Lane to on-screen life. Whether it was on radio, voice over for animation, silver screen or television, none of the many wonderful actresses to perform the role of Lois Lane have had the stamina, longevity or devotion to remain so close to the character all these years. It all started in 1948 with Kirk Alyn as the Man of Steel, making Noel and Lois Lane synonymous for...dare I say, 60 years. Say "Golly-Jeepers" somebody!!

If anyone were typecast for a character, Noel certainly has to be considered a prime candidate. But with Noel, it's hardly an issue, since she welcomes this honor. She has taken great pride in being remembered as a role model for young woman eager to make a presence in the working world. As a role model, many young women set aside their anxieties and nervousness so they can prove they are worthy. At a time when woman were guided more to being a housewife, Noel led the way for independency and career minded thinking. Often fans greet Noel with a mention of the impact she's had on their life. From an opposite gender point of view, I found Noel's character to be warm, sensitive and comforting. Yes, at times a bit too inquisitive in wanting to know if Clark and Superman were one and the same. It seems to me if she learned the truth of the dual identity, this Lois would never have cashed in for the Pulitzer winning story. In real life, Noel IS warm, sensitive, comforting and much more than Lois Lane. She never has anything negative to say about anyone, even when one might think it's appropriate. It just isn't her way. What is most startling to me after reading Larry's book is Noel's career started at a very young age. Unknown to me when I began watching broadcast episodes of the Adventures of Superman in the early 60's and well into the 80's and 90's is that Noel is blessed with an abundance of talent. This includes singing and dancing, which never fit in with the tone of the Adventures of Superman, except on a rare occasion when Ruta Kilmonis and Edward Reider cut a rug to Tony's diner jukebox. To Noel, singing and dancing is second nature. No more difficult than a stroll in a park. On two occasions I had the privilege to see the little lady strut her stuff up close. I stood and wondered why Noel would settle to be remembered mostly as a four-color comic-book creation when instead her talents certainly could have taken her beyond TV's Superman. Perhaps her best and glowing attributes work best with The Lawrence Welk Show or perfect for a show similar to the wholesome The Donna Reed Show. Maybe vollyball games on the sunny beaches of Santa Monica was too much of an allure compared to the bright lights of a studio set. I'm pretty certain though, she has no regrets about being remembered as "Lois Lane." For her many loyal fans, that's a plus.

One particular Noel Neill personal appearance which stands out the most for me is the June 5-7 Memphis Film Festival. Joining Noel were Beverly Washburn, Janine Perreau and Gregory Moffet. All had wonderful comments about their experience on the set of the Adventures of Superman. This event brought many fans traveling across the country to this event. Of the many who trekked to see Noel were Dennis Lark, Gail McIntyre, Mike Curtis, Jody McGee, Dave Orbach, Randy Garrett, Richard Potter, Mike Goldman, Jim Nolt and his daughter Lisa Copenhaver and her family. I even ran into Bruce Scivalli, the author of Superman on Film, Television, Radio and Broadway. An aspect of film festivals is the traditional showing of films via film projection. The Memphis Film Festival ran 16 MM prints of The Lone Ranger and the Adventures of Superman episodes. Also included was an extremely rare film titled Fun Time. This film is a 1944 short comedy, musical and romance. It includes Eddie Foy Jr., Yvonne DeCarlo and an assortment of artful vaudeville entertainers who weaved a series of impressive circus like maneuvers throughout the film. With all that was impressive of this little gem, the best scene came with Noel Neill. She literally stole the show with not only her exceptional beauty, but her song and dance performance brought at standing ovation from those attending the screening. Noel was absolutely breath-taking. From my vantage point, sitting just a few feet away from the Noel of now, I felt being part of a very special moment. It was a moving experience to say the least. Another Noel highlight was an episode of The Lone Ranger episode titled Letter of the Law. TAC wishes Noel the very best and thanks her for all the time she has spent meeting with fans across the country and far off places like Australia. We hope to see her again and for years to come. For a detailed list of Noel's 2008 appearance, be sure to visit Noel in 2008.

Of special note, there is a campaign to place a life-size bronze statue in Noel's honor. The statue represents her devotion to the fans and her portrayal of Lois Lane. This will take place in Metropolis, Il. If this does become a reality, her memory will be forever lasting. Imagine for a moment if you will, a hundred years from now a youngster will be able to see the very likeness of Noel, as we knew her. Because technology is rapidly growing, I suspect the world will be much different then. People of the future will see what we see. It won't be a generic likeness of Lois Lane, but a true vision of a woman who brought smiles to everyone she met. It is a faithful symbol of greatness. The design looks great and let's hope it happens. Noel deserves our support.


In the Name of the Step-Father

In performing the functions required at TAC, I find the real fun comes from knowing we are close to releasing a feature to the readership. It is my hope the readers will learn something new about George Reeves and anything connected to him. In 2007, Serena Enger did some extensive research and shared with us very important findings relative to George's step-father Frank Bessolo. This year, Serena with an assistance from Gail Carter, a family member from Mr. Bessolo's second wife Althea Alice Weaver brought us an update to Father's Day: Frank Joseph Bessolo: Step-Father of George Reeves. Ms. Carter searching her family tree came across the TAC site. After some introductions Ms. Carter provided many wonderful items to add to Serena's article. Once Jim, Serena and I gracefully picked our respective jaws off the floor Serena went fast to work to incoporate Gail's insights into the article. Together Serena and Gail gave us a keen insight into the family dynamics and with this information it has become much more clear how the series of events took place in George's life during those years. TAC thanks Serena and Gail for bringing to the GR community much valuable information. I can't stress enough how important these findings are to the life of George Reeves. It is also an inspiration in knowing how far we've jumped ahead of what was thought to be unattainable. Colete Morlock shares her thoughts on the subject:

Serena's intensive research has certainly paid off in clarifying an intrinsic part of George Reeves' family tree. Her diligence and painstakingly thorough digging has shed new light on Frank Bessolo and what George's years with him were like. -- Colete Morelock

Serena would also provide a most revealing article titled Helen Bessolo's Third Marriage. which caught everyone with the GR community completely by surprise. A Scoop of News certainly is applicable. After reading the entry, it is obvious Helen didn't always make wise choices in her life. Nevertheless, Serena brings to the surface thought provoking information. On a more entertaining note, Serena flexed her muscles with a subject very close to her heart. Crime and Justice: Notable Film Noir and Crime Dramas is well written and delves into what makes the film noir style of filmmaking so intriguing and as you all know the 1951 season of Superman was filmed in this fashion.


You Are Here

Over the last couple of years Armand Vaquer has come to be the resident spotter of TAoS location shots. He's done a terrific job thus far. For Armand, it's no different than driving to his local supermarket. It's Los Angeles and for him it's, well, home. This time though, the location is not linked to an actual TAoS filming sight. If a vacation spot of George's interests you, visit Apple Valley Inn: Hollywood's Vacationland for a then and now look. Perhaps you've already been to this resort or maybe you'll want to visit there in the future. Thank you Armand.

Ok, for the record, I'm still on my first cup of coffee and it's still slightly warm.


We Can Still Imagine

Filming was to begin in September 1959 for another season of the Adventures of Superman, with the expectation of being broadcast in 1960. On a number of occasions the subject of this season has come up in group discussions. We have little knowledge of what the story content of each episode involved. Some suspect they would have leaned in favor of human interest stories. We've come to learn scripts were written, but no actual proof exists to lend support to the testimony. To avoid wasted labor, most likely these scripts were converted to comic book stories at National / DC Comics. Stephen L. Brooks provides three terrific stories based on his own imagination. These untold stories are wonderful examples of what the lost scripts might have been like. Thank you Stephen L. Brooks for providing us with First Encounters, Missing, and Trouble on the Old Home Front. Of special note, each of these features include the wonderful illustrated work by Randy Garrett. My praise of Randy's work is well documented within the confines of this web-site and it's no secret I think his work is THE definitive look of the Adventures of Superman. Randy's work is a monumental feat never before achieved by anyone. But let's not typecast Randy. Be sure to visit Randy's own site showcasing his work of all ranges. Jim did the page layouts for Stephen's stories. So a personal thanks is in order for Jolly Jim for picking up some of the TAC chores. I like this job better when Jim drops in. In fact, I think it's safe to say Noltdom does too.

Speaking of scripts, since we are on the subject of Noel, Larry Ward provided a great photo of Noel. What makes this image interesting (other than Noel's sheer beauty) is the script Noel is reading is titled Killer Mountain. Michael J. Hayde, in true "Michael J. Hayde" fashion added his comments. So if you happened to have missed this, be sure to check it out. Thanks go out to Larry, Jim and Michael.


A Quiet Fellow and His Twin Brother

George Reeves was featured in many newspaper and magazine articles throughout his career. Colete Morlock and Serena Enger came across the Herald-Advisor, dated January 1, 1956, titled 'Superman' Is Just Quiet Fellow From Ashland. Colete took it to another step and communicated with Terry Crane and her husband Fred. Fred who is now passed away appeared with George in Gone With the Wind as the Tarleton Twins, Brent and Stuart. George remained in Fred's heart all his life and never would a day go by Fred didn't think of his dear friend. Earlier this year, Mr. Crane was most deservingly inducted in the Glass House Presents George Reeves Hall of Fame.

Fred was a loyal friend to George and spoke highly of him whenever the subject of George arose in his personal life and during a TV segment. Terry gave us some insight to the Tarleton Twins beginnings when the famous two were cast for the film. TAC thanks Colete, Serena, Terry and Fred. BTW, it's nice to think Fred is reunited with his buddie George.


Extra! Extra!

Often are George Reeves fans intrigued by the many personal appearances George made across the country and in doing so we learn he'd made a stop in our local area. The excitement is often followed with disappointment by those who realized they missed the occasion. George made two appearances at Hess' Department Store in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Jim Nolt a native of the state can tell you his disappointment having been so close and unfortunately unaware of the appearance. What usually followed the event was an article in the local newspapers and thanks to Mr. Bill Dillane we have newspaper items from George's appearance in Hartford, Connecticut. Readers were first aware of the Sportsmen's and Boat Show appearance when Gary Grossman's Superman: Serial to Cereal.first presented the image you see to the left. George who enjoyed fishing and hunting and owned a small collection of hunting rifles most likely enjoyed the show for his own hobbie interest. Being mobbed for autographs and handshakes, he probably didn't get a chance to buy that fresh-water fishing gear he'd been wanting.


Golly-Jeepers

Thom Hamilton and Colete Morlock combined their close (but many miles apart) friendship and writing skills to bring us The Many Faces of Jimmy Olsen: As Shown by Jack Larson. On a personal note, this was a pleasant surprise this year for TAC. We at TAC wrestled with the idea of doing something extensive for Jack, and when Colete approached me with the idea I was thrilled to say the least. Jack was too when I sent it to him for his OK. Jack marvels at being remembered in this fashion and he appreciated the efforts by Thom and Colete. Thank you both for your interest and tremedous support. The following by Ralph Schiller and John Raspanti pretty much sums it up.

A tip of the hat to Thom Hamilton and Colete Morlock for their incredibly sparkling tribute to Jack Larson the actor! This honor has been long overdue and a reminder that Jack Larson is a talented, versatile, and gifted actor. Congratulations Thom and Colete for showing all of us that the magic in the Adventures Of Superman was it's ensemble cast of players who shined in every episode. -- Ralph Schiller

I just read and it's...MARVELOUS!!!!!! Man you guys did a great job! -- John Raspanti

Indeed they did John, indeed they did. BTW, this was Thom's first contribution and I think he rose to the occasion in splendid fashion.


Uncle Ben

In early 2008, Jim Nolt heard from a family member of Mr. Ben Welden. Chuck Weinblatt of Sylvania, OH provided a very warm and personal mini-biography of his uncle titled Ben Welden, the Gentle Gangster. It's nice to read that one of our favorite movies and television gangsters was in real life a very gentle, sweet natured man with a charming smile who loved children as one of his many attributes. Ben Welden affectionately ranks at the top of TAoS villain gallery list for most fans. Thanks go out to Chuck for sharing his personal memories of Ben Welden.


Mad Am I?

Earlier this year I was taken by a surprise comment which came from Louise Blyton at Dave Schutz's Friendly Discussion Board. Long story short (if that's possible for me), at the urgency of Louise, I watched the classic film, Sunset Boulevard starring Gloria Swanson and William Holden. After taking in this great film I was astonished at what I found. As a result, I collected my thoughts and went fast to work preparing what I would appropriately title, Mad About the Boy. Two months later I was both, finished and exhausted from the effort. At first I'd hope this item wouldn't be recognized as an "Off Topic" entry . But I found the many similarities between the characters in the film, it's story line and that of George Reeves and his relationship with Toni Mannix too much to brush aside. The striking similarities seemed too coincidental. It made me wonder if the media lifted a lifestyle pattern from the film to fit a snug description of George's and Toni's relationship without knowing the true scope of who these real life people were. Then again, maybe this is an unexplainable bona fide coincidence. Once completed and before launching, I also wondered if the community might think I finally fell off my rocker. Or that I flipped my lid from watching Topsy Turvey just one too many times. After the release of Mad About the Boy, I received e-mails from numerous people. Two e-mails in particular coming from Bruce Dettman and Randy Garrett with compliments I hadn't expected.

The Sunset Boulevard: Mad About the Boy article is one of the best, unique and creative pieces written in a long time. It tapped new territory and was intriguing and inventive.-- Bruce Dettman.

I think your analysis of Sunset Boulevard is very accurate. A big Thumbs Up. I thought of George and Toni when I first saw Sunset Boulevard years ago on TV, but at that time I was unaware of all the similarities that you keenly pointed out. -- Randy Garrett.

Bruce describes the article as "New territory," in the manner of giving you the readers something to consider rather than accept everything we've read in books, magazines, TV tabloid shows or documentaries. I'm thinking the contents as described in Mad About the Boy have been greatly "overlooked" all these many years. For all that has been written about George and Toni, a comparison to SB seems to have slipped below the radar. To others like Randy and Louise, they caught a glimpse. Of course it didn't slip by those who used it to enhance their description of the George and Toni affair. Thanks to Serena Enger who aided me by providing SB newspaper articles from 1951. I thank her again along with Louise for their noted thoughts on the subject. They along with Bruce and Randy "got it."


This is a job for....Dettman!!

This year, like the previous two, Bruce Dettman continued with his great work by providing mini-biographies of the Adventures of Superman character actors. At Dettman Documents, we got to enjoy new insights about John Kellogg, Walter Reed and Richard Reeves. Often during the year Bruce would write to me with apologies for not providing a higher count of mini-bio's. The fact Bruce or anyone takes the time from their busy daily lives to make any contribution, please note we at TAC are enormously grateful. It's not about flooding the gates or keeping up with the "Jones." It's about doing something you enjoy when you have the time to do so. Otherwise, it isn't fun. TAC is not about placing burden on anyone for features. So never sweat it my friend. Never think what you've provided to us is not enough. It counts as tremendous. Thank you. Your entries are fun reading and meant to stimulate others into creating good discussions among themselves or with the author. For example, Jim Nolt will describe in his most appropriate way;

Hey, I know that actor! How often, when watching movies of the 40s and 50s, have you said that? And very likely you know the actor first and foremost from Superman. "That's Lou Cranak,"or "Isn't that Leftover Louie Lyman?" The examples, of course, are many, and in "Bruce Dettman Documents" at TAC, our special mini-biographer does such a fine job of filling us in on an actor's background that the next time the character actor shows up we truly can say, Hey... I know that actor. -- Jim Nolt


Passing on

This year we were saddened by the news of four individuals who have passed away. Tyler McDuff appeared in The Boy Who Hated Superman and Olsen's Millions. Mr. McDuff passed away in December of '07, but we didn't hear of the news until March. Jack was very good friends with Mr. McDuff and in fact was instrumental in helping Tyler get his spot in the episodes listed. Jack Narz, the memorable and gentle speaking narrator in Superman and the Mole Men a.k.a. The Unknown People and Superman on Earth passed away in October. Fred Crane, a life-long friend of George's since they met on the set of Gone with the Wind died in August. Another interesting mention is Patricia Marand, who passed away in November. Ms. Marand is the actress who played the role of Lois Lane in the Bob Holiday 1966 Broadway play It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman at the Alvin Theatre in NYC. While Ms. Marand is not directly connected to TAoS or George Reeves, according to Steve Maurer of New York, she prepared for her evening performances by watching the Adventures of Superman at 6:30PM on WPIX. TAC extends its most sincere condolences to their families for the loss of their loved one. May these good folks be forever at peace.

Whew, I'm ready for a coffee refill. But, I'm going to wait till I get to the bottom of this page.


George Reeves: 18,033 Days Ago

To many, George Reeves will forever be remembered as Superman, a fictional character of immortal strength and abilities. Because George was much more than Superman, he will live on in the hearts of many for many other reasons. Immortal he was not. He never claimed to be any more or less than anyone else. As we begin our journey into the new year, I cannot help but think of June 16, 2009. This date marks the 50th anniversary of George's death. It is often I receive e-mails from readers who feel George was and still is a positive influence on their lives. I've also met countless people at collectable shows who've expressed these very same sentiments. For an individual to have such a remarkable impact on the lives of so many speaks volumes for that person. Even after that unfateful day which took place by an estimated 18,033 days ago, George's memory continues to be strong. Most of us who have this interest are now older than George when he died at age 45. I like to think by now our old friend is resting in peace, for he has given us a lifetime of entertainment and good values to be inspired by. What actor could ask for anything more? With "Superman," he gave us much more than any other who played the role. While we wish we could, what more could we ask?

George's inspiration continues to be found at other sites such as Glass House Presents by Carl and Leslie Glass, George Reeves Forever by Richard Potter and Mary's George Reeves Fan Site by Mary Spooner. At these places you will find an abundance of sentimental expressions and tributes to Mr. Reeves. All presented in the good spirit we know George would greatly admire. From Dave' Schutz's Friendly Discussion board, Mr. X is still out there generously spreading DVD's with your favorite episodes at no cost to you. All you have to do to be the lucky winner is be first with the right answer to his trivia question. The only rule? No second winners allowed. Seems reasonably fair to me. Mr. X, as Randy Garrett was with his time when he created the illustrated version of Superman and the Secret Planet has been enormously generous. Tough acts to follow. It is also great to see George's image pop up in an Alex Ross cover for Age of TV Heroes book by George Khoury and Jason Hofius, from Two Morrows Publishing. George still makes a formidable impression.

Veronica Guyader, Director of the George Reeves Memorial and the folks in Woolstock, Iowa continue their effort to someday restore the home where George Reeves was born. Please refer to this page and if you feel you can help contribute to their cause, be sure to contact Veronica.


Scrolling Along

Maybe you didn't notice, but this page includes text and images set side-by-side. For me, it's a first. Jim's done it in the past, but I never could figure out how to do it until I finally took the time to do it. Up till now, with the pages I created the text and images have never shared a horizontal line. I hope you like it. I do, and so I may modify some previous pages in this manner.

What's in store for 2009? Well, much like last year at this time the hopper was pretty much empty by year's end. But time didn't fail us as is demonstrated above. We at TAC are usually taken by surprise when something new presents itself. Remember, TAC's success comes from those interested in contributing. So, at this junction, only time will tell. Regarding TAoS in general, I do know Michael J, Hayde is making progress with his book, FLIGHTS OF FANTASY: The Unauthorized but True Story of Radio and TV's Adventures of Superman.. I'll let Mike take it from here:

Overall, the book is about 80% finished. I originally expected to have the book ready for release this year. I expect to hand in a final manuscript by mid-February, for a summer release. Overall, the book should be a fun, informative read for both radio and TV fans of the mighty Man of Steel. - Michael J. Hayde

Thank you Mike as we patiently look forward to your book release.

In closing, I'd like to thank all the good people who take the time to write e-mails to either Jim or myself expressing admiration for the TAC site and all it presents. No need to list names, you know who you are. You all deserve an episode ending wink from George.


Now, how about that second cup of coffee? But this time let's join George, Noel, John and Jack. Pass the milk and sugar please.

Special thanks to Randy Garrett for providing this wonderful imaginary behind-the-scenes coffee break with the Adventures of Superman cast members.

In closing, Jim and I would like to wish all our friends a happy and safe New Year.

Good-bye 2008, hello to 2009. Let peace be found for all mankind.

Thanks for Watching.

Lou (December 31, 2008)   

Dedicated to "Pop."

 


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